Michigan

Ex-Brighton mayor dies before honors

Former Brighton mayor Jim Winchel was to be given his due Tuesday night9/9 at a party in his honor.

Winchel, who was to be the guest of honor, was instead remembered by a crowd of 200 after he died that afternoon of cancer at the age of 68.

The event was originally organized as a Dean Martin-style "roast," but the format was changed after Winchel said he would be unable to attend on advice of his doctors.

"He was an awesome model of what we should all strive to be because he was such a great servant," said Greater Brighton Area Chamber of Commerce Director Pam McConeghy. "He loved people, he loved causes."

The benefit raised more than $20,000 for the Gleaners Community Food Bank.
Winchel, who owned Colt Park Insurance agency, served the city for a quarter-century on numerous boards, committees and commissions. Winchel eventually served on the City Council from 1983 until 1999, including three terms as mayor.

Funeral services for Winchel are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday at First Presbyterian Church in Brighton. Arrangements are being handled by the Hermann Funeral Home in Brighton.